Recent NHL announcement likely secures Gary Bettman's job for years to come
When it comes to Commissioners in professional sports, Gary Bettman is one of the most detestable amongst fans. Bettman can't deliver a single speech without a chorus of boos filling the arena. Unfortunately for fans though, just because they dislike Bettman, doesn't mean the owners do.
Over the last six months Bettman has received a significant amount of criticism for his commitment to the Arizona market. Fans have questioned, why the owners would allow Bettman to keep pushing a market that hasn't worked.
Well it appears there might be a reason.
From NBC in 2020-21 to TNT and ESPN in 2021-22, this season marked the largest increase in overall average viewers ever.
The NHL's new media (and broadcast) rights deal has attracted more new viewers watching hockey than ever before. With the Stanley Cup playoffs consisting of nearly 25% of new NHL viewers. That's big.
Overall, the 2021-22 season averaged 52% more viewers per game than last season.
The hype around the NHL was real this season, and the new TV deal was the main factor.
The NHL's new media (and broadcast) rights deal has attracted more new viewers watching hockey than ever before. With the Stanley Cup playoffs consisting of nearly 25% of new NHL viewers. That's big.
Overall, the 2021-22 season averaged 52% more viewers per game than last season.
The hype around the NHL was real this season, and the new TV deal was the main factor.
If viewership continues to grow at that rate, there won't be much Bettman won't be allowed to do going forward. Numbers like this will also likely secure Bettman's spot for years to come.
| POLL | ||
Is Gary Bettman the right person to grow the NHL? | ||
| Yes, he's done a great job | 0 | 0 % |
| No, he's too committed to failed ideas | 0 | 0 % |
| List of polls | ||
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